- Public invited to weigh in on proposed surface water changes.
- 60-day comment period runs from August 15 to October 14, 2025.
- Review part of state’s 2026 Triennial Review process.
- Virtual meeting scheduled for September 10, 2025.
Monday, August 25, 2025 — The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED)
is inviting residents, tribes, and organizations to comment on proposed changes to the state’s surface water regulations. The 60-day comment period began on August 15, 2025, and will close on October 14, 2025. Feedback may be submitted through mail, email, or NMED’s SmartComment portal.
These comments will be used to refine the proposals before NMED petitions the state’s Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC) for a rulemaking hearing later this year. An additional comment opportunity will be provided at the hearing itself.
Why It Matters.
Under the federal Clean Water Act, states must establish water quality standards that protect public health and preserve water resources. New Mexico updates these standards through a process called a Triennial Review, which requires public hearings at least once every three years.
The state’s most recent review was approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in January 2023. NMED plans to consider current public input and petition for a WQCC hearing by the end of 2025, with formal proceedings expected in the second half of 2026.
Types of Amendments Considered.
Amendments to water quality standards can take different forms, including:
-
Use Changes: Removing or modifying designated uses of a waterbody, often based on scientific analysis of what the water can support.
-
Criteria Updates: Establishing new numeric or narrative benchmarks to safeguard water uses.
-
Site-Specific Standards: Tailoring criteria to reflect local environmental conditions.
-
Temporary Standards: Short-term adjustments when full compliance is not immediately possible.
-
Enhanced Protections: Adding designations for Outstanding National Resource Waters to preserve high-quality areas.
These amendments are meant to balance environmental protection with practical considerations such as existing infrastructure and economic activity.
How to Participate.
Residents can provide input in several ways:
-
Email: michael.baca1@env.nm.gov
-
Mail: P.O. Box 5469, Santa Fe, NM 87502
-
SmartComment Portal
: available through NMED
In addition, a virtual informational meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Details are available on the NMED Events Calendar.
NMED states that the upcoming Triennial Review is part of its responsibility to “protect and restore the environment and to foster a healthy and prosperous New Mexico for present and future generations.” Public involvement is a central part of the process, giving residents the opportunity to help shape water policy that affects rivers, lakes, and streams across the state.
